“Rivers are particularly good for writers. No one knows exactly why. I suspect it has something to do with the presence of ospreys.”

– Max Garland, Wisconsin state poet laureate
Volume One magazine

St. Croix 360 is proud to be part of the English Majors’ Ball, a party on April 20 in Stillwater to support ArtReach St. Croix’s programs, including Valley Reads, which will host book-related events around the valley over the previous few days.

The event’s silent auction will include a canoe trip on the St. Croix with this writer, and a unique participatory poetry component. Get your tickets for $10 each here.

The St. Croix in 17 syllables

The Twitter haiku challenge will give everyone the chance to try their hand at writing short poems inspired by the St. Croix River. The poems — traditionally written in lines of five, seven and five syllables — have long celebrated nature, the seasons, and philosophy inspired by both.

We will have educational materials about these popular and deceptively simple poems, and entries will be posted live on Twitter.

“Don’t take it too literally”

While it’s called a “ball,” the dress code is “party casual,” and honorary English degrees will be handed out at the door. There will be light appetizers and a cash bar.

Local bluegrass cover band Thrift Store Sonata will also entertain. They have a regular gig for Townie Tuesdays at Lift Bridge Brewing’s taproom and have a great sound.

A worthy cause

ArtReach’s literary programming includes the annual Valley Reads community-wide book club, “Writers on Writing,” which brings authors to the community for talks, and classes and workshops which provide valuable education for writers.

Buy tickets for the event here.

Note: I’m on the board of ArtReach St. Croix